Epilepsy

The NHS’ definition of Epilepsy is;

Epilepsy is a condition that affects your brain and causes seizures (sometimes called fits). It cannot currently be cured, but treatment can often help manage it.

Symptoms of epilepsy

Usually the only symptom of epilepsy is having seizures.

Symptoms of seizures can include:

  • your body becoming stiff or floppy
  • suddenly falling to the floor
  • jerking or twitching movements in your body
  • peeing unintentionally
  • losing awareness of what’s around you – you may stare into space and not be able to respond normally
  • unusual feelings or sensations, such as strange smells, numbness or tingling, changes in your vision, or suddenly feeling scared
  • unusual behaviour, such as fidgeting or walking around and not being aware of what you’re doing

A seizure usually lasts a few seconds or minutes and stops by itself. In my case, however, seizures do not stop without medical intervention and can last for more than an hour.

You might be aware of having a seizure and remember it afterwards, or you might not.

Symptoms of epilepsy often start in young children and people over 50, but it can happen at any age.

My epilepsy writing

I write about my experiences of epilepsy, including medication, sleep, stress and managing the condition alongside cerebral palsy. Explore my latest articles below.